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President's Message - 1986
Yearbook 1986 page 1 By: John Soar Back to the web versionOHS Yearbook 1986
The President's Message:
After two years in office, I can now say with experience that being President of the Ottawa Horticultural Society is both a privilege and a pleasure. In what other field could one find such a worthwhile group of people with whom to share the successes, the ideas, even some disappointments? I have encountered only help and support during my term and I am grateful for it Your participation has been generously forthcoming and I think that together we have done some good things.
There is a lot more to do. In my opinion, the Society should playa larger part in affairs of the Community. We are, perhaps, put off by the great power of the Federal Government, the National Capita Commission, the City, Region, etc., but I think that there is room for us 'and I certainly believe that we are needed. The trouble is that we are not quite strong enough to mount a major initiative which would have a lasting impact on the Community and which would attract new members to support our efforts physically and financially. In a City of over 300,000 we should have more than 400 members. It would be great if we could have over 2,000 members of whom, perhaps, 400 would be very active. Imagine what we could do at the Billings Estate if that were the situation!
Well, I like to dream. It may seem impractical but I think that we should always have a long range goal that is beyond our immediate grasp. A major project, an effective programme for young people, a membership drive, are all possibilities that we could aim at We can keep our present programme running to meet the very worthwhile objectives that we currently have. To grow we have to widen the circle.
If you are reading this for the first time as a member or a new member and you agree in part with what I am saying, why not get involved yourself? Give the President a call; I can assure you that calls of support are always welcome, and active offers of involvement are particularly welcome. If you offer your services, the Society can do more to make Ottawa a better place. If you have an idea that would enhance the programme please put it forward and advance it with your efforts. We need you.
Gardening is good for you and for those around you. It makes the world a better place. I hope 1986 is a great year for all of you. I particularly wish every success to Linda Temple, your new President
[Signed John Soar]
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